Just a part of the hole we call an economy. my husband got laid off, 2 months later I got laid off, struggling not really making ends meet, we finally got work him 1 month ago, me this month, almost got kicked out of my rental house, my electric is about to be cut off. I’m late on my car, late on all my bills, I need money NOW! I fear that if my electric gets shut off the state can take my kids. I'm losing hope, having BAD thoughts, none of which Id do, (robbery, stealing) but that is how desperate I have become, I am too God loving, and I love my family TOO much to risk my life for something stupid like that, but it has crossed my mind. But so has something much worse. I feel I am falling, and I can’t see the way out any more. I need about 1500 to get to a place where my feet touch ground, and with paychecks coming in now, I can stay afloat, I don’t have a lot of debt I am just FAR behind, I have been looking for part time weekend work, so has my husband, but I am in need of money to keep the lights on now, to keep the car in the drive way, to keep food on the table. I don’t do my hair, don’t do my nails, haven’t gone out to eat in 6 months I just feel like..............I don’t even know any more
I agree ~ go to the local churches. I used to work for a church and they set funds aside to help people who truly need it. Also call your electric company. Let them know the situation and see what they can do to help you (payment plan, etc.). Be sure to let them know you have children at the home too.
$1,500 doesn't really sound like a lot within the whole scheme of things. I know it sounds like a lot when you don't have it and need it. Maybe you can borrow from a bank or somewhere you can maybe put up some collateral. I would avoid pawn shops though. Maybe a family member can help. It's hard to ask, but I'm sure they will understand. I don't know if you want to get your hands dirty, but try a cleaning service to maybe work on weekends. I'm very sorry for your hardship, but God will provide for those who believe unto him. Keep your head up and know it will soon pass.
Have you considered calling the United Way's hotline? The number for the Bexar County hotline is just 211. I don't know what all the options are, but the United Way is in contact with all different kinds of local and national organizations, and they make sure that people are put in contact with the groups that can help them--most importantly, so that you can get the help you need to not have to worry about losing your kids! That must be the worst of all, being terrified about your family, and you really don't need or deserve to worry all the time. If you're reluctant to ask for help, which I don't know if you are, then do it for your girls!
It is so hard when we can't provide the things our families need. I understand the frustration and hopelessness that quickly builds in these situations and hope for you that things continue to turn around. Hang in there!
As you wait for the new jobs and paychecks to come in, do you have a church home that could help you out? I know it is very difficult to ask for help, but many churches do have programs in place (free counseling, food pantries, funds set aside to help with emergencies like you are experiencing etc).
Also, I have been told that if you call the utilities company etc and ask for a payment plan/extension/grace period, they will usually work with you.
My husband and have found the advice offered by Dave Ramsey (Financial Peace, Total Money Makeover, etc) very helpful. The website is http://beta.daveramsey.com and his radio show is on KTSA (AM550) weekdays from 1-3. He has some great tips for things to say to bill collectors to keep them off your back.
